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Most Popular Classic Cars to Restore

Any classic car will look good when it is restored, no matter what condition it might have been in initially. Some classic cars, however, have a certain universal appeal that makes them more popular for restoration projects. Cars that were either extremely rare or exclusive when they were first released are now worth far more than your typical classic car. Some are simply easier to repair and have a higher availability of parts.

Whatever the reason, every classic car enthusiast should have at least five cars to consider as potential restoration projects. These should be cars you have driven and are intimately familiar with, rather than cars you simply admire the look of. The following are five of the most popular automobiles for restorations:

1964-68 Ford Mustang. The first generation Mustang is perhaps the favorite car for restorers. Any Mustang part can be found with little trouble, and virtually every part for the early model has been reproduced and is stocked by a variety of companies. There are numerous online help forums and discussion boards for Mustang restorers, and experts are not hard to find. This car runs like a dream once it has been restored and has that classic look that makes it easy to sell, if selling is your goal.

1976-79 Chevrolet Camaro. Another first generation car, the ’67 Camaro is a dependable and easily fixed car – and a lot of fun to drive. All of the parts for this car can be purchased brand new, and many of the parts are the same as other Chevy models and even other-brand cars of the same year. Its reliability and the thrill of driving it mean the first generation Camaro will be a popular car for many years to come.

1961-66 Ford Thunderbird. A third generation model, the early ’60s Thunderbirds were long, low, and sleek and offered a particularly smooth ride. The demand for these cars is only now beginning to rise, which means the availability of parts is increasing. Prices for the cars are still relatively low.

1963-65 Buick Riviera. These large, low to the ground, two-door sports cars come with a surprising turn of speed. They were one of the best designed cars of their time, outperforming all rivals in cornering, accelerating, and braking, including the Ford Thunderbird. Finding parts for these cars is still difficult, but will soon be simpler as manufacturers recognize the demand for the early ’60s Riviera.

1968-70 AMC AMX. American Motors enthusiasts in particular consider this model the muscle car to own, as it was one of the fastest and best handling of its era. It is arguably the best looking AMX model ever built, and its speed and relatively low price make it an enviable car for classic restorers. Parts can be difficult to find, but like the Riviera, manufacturers are beginning to recognize and accommodate the demand.

For more information about restoring classic cars, or to talk with a classic car restoration expert, contact All Glass & Upholstery today.